Luciferin - FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

I have questions. Can I talk to an actual live person?

If you have questions about Regis Luciferin, please contact Scott Mohler at +1 847 583 7643 or email luciferin@registech.com.

Is there a difference between firefly luciferin, beetle luciferin, and D-Luciferin from Regis?

No. D-Luciferin from Regis, firefly luciferin, and beetle luciferin are all names for the same chemical, (S)-2-(6-Hydroxy-2-benzothiazolyl)-2-thiazoline-4-carboxylic acid. Regis produces both the free acid and the Potassium Salt of the carboxylic acid.

For what applications is Regis D-Luciferin suitable?

Regis D-Luciferin is used in all luciferase applications including gene reporter assays, hygene testing, sanitation monitoring, pyrosequencing, and whole animal imaging.

How is D-Luciferin prepared for whole animal imaging?

D-Luciferin salts are easily soluble up to 30mg/mL in unbuffered water and many preps simply dissolve the luciferin potassium salt at 3-15 mg/mL for i.p. administration.
If a buffering system is to be used, pH and time are very important as D-Luciferin is relatively unstable at low pH (<6.5, hydrolysis) and high pH (>7.5, conversion to L-Luciferin).

What is the difference between the free acid, sodium salt and potassium salt?

The main difference between the free acid and the salt forms is the solubility and dissolution characteristics. D-Luciferin free acid has very low solubility in water and dissolves very slowly into buffered solutions. The sodium and potassium salts both dissolve quite easily and quickly into water. Once in solution, there is no practical difference between the three forms for most applications.

How should Regis Technologies D-Luciferin Potassium Salt be stored?

D-Luciferin Potassium Salt should be stored at -20°C, protected from light for long term storage.
D-Luciferin Potassium Salt manufactured by Regis Technologies has passed stability testing at 25°C for over 1 month. This allows the D-Luciferin Potassium Salt to be shipped at room temperature and stored at room temperature for short periods of time.

How stable is luciferin in solution?

Frozen (-80°C) samples have been reported to be suitable for use after a year. Liquid samples at room temperature show degradation of up to 0.25% per day with the degradation route being pH dependant. If oxygen is present in the solution, dehydroluciferin will form.

Can Regis manufacture D-Luciferin suitable for diagnostic device or clinical trial uses?

Because Regis Technologies is a GMP facility, Regis has the ability to produce batches under GMP conditions. Regis has experience with the FDA and other world regulatory bodies in helping to get drugs and diagnostic devices approved.

How can I order D-Luciferin?

Orders can be placed by credit card either on our website or by calling Regis customer service at 800.323.8144 ext 674 or +1 847 967 6000 ext 674. Orders can be placed by PO number by calling Regis customer service, faxing Regis customer service at +1 847 967 1214 or emailing luciferin@registech.com.

Why buy D-Luciferin from Regis Technologies?

With over 40 years of Luciferin manufacturing experience, Regis has the knowledge and flexibility to work with our customers to develop custom specifications, packaging and other special requests. Additionally, Regis eliminates the middle men and can pass the savings on to our customers without compromising quality.